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Blue Jackets’ Zach Werenski Details Impact of Provorov’s Absence & Having Full Lineup

It was a long time coming for Zach Werenski. Stuck at zero goals for the season late in Thursday night’s 2-1 shootout win over the Dallas Stars, he turned a…

By Mark Scheig · The Hockey Writers

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 10:05 PM

Key Things to Know

Zach Werenski explained that having Ivan Provorov and a full defensive lineup keeps him fresher and boosts team momentum.
Columbus started the season without top defensemen Ivan Provorov, Dante Fabbro, and Damon Severson due to injuries.
Werenski scored his first goal of the season in a 2-1 shootout victory over the Dallas Stars.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski explained how the absence and subsequent return of Ivan Provorov and other injured blueliners has shaped the team's early season. Werenski noted that having a fully healthy defense corps allows him to stay fresher and play with sustained momentum rather than having to constantly recover on the ice.

Werenski recently scored his first goal of the season in a 2-1 shootout win against the Dallas Stars. Columbus started the season missing Provorov, Dante Fabbro, and Damon Severson, but the team's recent improved form coincides with the defensemen returning to their normal roles.

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Blue Jackets’ Zach Werenski Details Impact of Provorov’s Absence & Having Full Lineup

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